The Upper Mississippi River Watershed stands at a crossroads. Agricultural runoff, public health risks, and recurrent flooding are converging into one of the most pressing environmental and economic challenges of our time. Addressing these issues requires a new model of collaboration between agriculture, conservation, public health, and private sector leaders. Watershed26 is a summit designed to drive change and chart our shared path forward.

Watershed26 is hosted by the Great Outdoors Foundation and its partners. It will be held at the Iowa Events Center on Tuesday, June 30 and Wednesday, July 1, 2026.

Location

Iowa Events Center
730 3rd Street
Des Moines, IA 50309

Travel & Accommodations

It is recommended that out-of-town guests fly into the Des Moines International Airport (DSM), located approximately 15 minutes away from the Iowa Events Center. A complimentary shuttle to the Hilton Des Moines Downtown is available at your convenience by calling (515) 241-1456.

The Great Outdoors Foundation has negotiated a discounted conference rate of $155 for single and double occupancy rooms at the Hilton Des Moines Downtown. This block is available on a first-come, first-served basis, and the discounted rate is available through June 1, 2026. Room rates for reservations booked after June 1 are at the hotel’s discretion and subject to availability.

Hilton Des Moines Downtown
435 Park Street
Des Moines, IA 50309

Make your reservation online for the discounted group rate under the Great Outdoors Foundation.

Draft Agenda

Engage with dynamic, cross-sector attendees in large group and breakout sessions following content tracks for Emerging Voices, Finance Solutions, Dynamic Partnerships, Science & Data, and Stacked Benefits.

Athene Watershed26 is made possible by our generous sponsors and partners. To learn more about supporting the summit, click here.

Please direct all Watershed26 questions to marketing@greatoutdoorsfoundation.org. You’ll receive a response from our team as soon as possible!